Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

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Craving something that feels like a steakhouse indulgence but comes together quickly in your kitchen? These Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells are exactly that kind of magic. Tender bites of steak seared in garlicky, golden butter meet velvety, smoky pasta shells in a dish that’s bold, rich, and weeknight-friendly.

It’s the kind of comforting meal that’s got just the right amount of heat and loads of flavor. The juicy steak bites are packed with savory depth from the garlic butter, while the chipotle cheddar pasta adds creamy tang with a kick. Together, they create a cozy yet exciting combination that satisfies like a hug and a high-five.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

This recipe brings gourmet-level flavor without any of the fussy prep. Steak cooks up fast, making this perfect for busy nights, while the creamy chipotle pasta adds a touch of indulgence without needing a complicated sauce. Plus, the whole dish feels fancy enough for guests but easy enough to whip up in under 30 minutes.

It also allows for easy customizations. Prefer your steak rare? Easy. Want it spicier? Add more chipotle. Want to sneak in some greens? Stir in wilted spinach or chopped roasted peppers.

What Cut of Steak Should I Use for Steak Bites?

The best steak for this dish is one that cooks quickly and stays tender. Sirloin is a great go-to—affordable and flavorful with a lean bite. Ribeye adds more marbling and rich flavor if you want to splurge. Tenderloin or filet mignon is super soft and ideal if you’re aiming for ultra-luxe results. Cut it into bite-sized chunks and you’re good to go. Just make sure it’s well seasoned and seared hot for a caramelized crust.

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

This recipe balances rich, buttery steak with creamy, spiced shells. Each ingredient adds depth and texture, and nothing is overly complicated to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Steak (sirloin or ribeye)
• Butter
• Garlic cloves
• Shell pasta
• White cheddar cheese
• Chipotle peppers in adobo
• Heavy cream
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley

How To Make the Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by cooking your shell pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Chipotle Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt a bit of butter, then add finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo and stir in heavy cream. Once it simmers, reduce heat and add shredded white cheddar cheese, whisking until smooth and melty. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Keep warm.

Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites

While your sauce simmers, cut your steak into bite-sized cubes. Pat dry, then season well with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a hot skillet and sear steak in a single layer. Sear on all sides until browned and cooked to your liking.

Step 4: Add the Garlic Butter Finish

Reduce heat to low. Add a generous amount of butter and minced garlic to the pan. Toss steak bites to coat in that fragrant garlic butter.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Spoon the creamy chipotle cheddar shells onto plates and top with sizzling garlic butter steak bites. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for color and flavor.

How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells

This hearty dish serves 4 people generously, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or a cozy double date at home. For presentation, plate the shells first and stack the steak bites on top to show off that gorgeous garlic butter glaze. A quick garnish of chopped parsley and a crack of fresh pepper makes it feel instantly upscale.

Leftovers store well too. Place cooled pasta and steak in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. The steak is best reheated briefly so it doesn’t dry out—a quick toss in a hot skillet does the trick.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells?

Roasted Garlic Broccoli

A simple pan of oven-roasted broccoli with garlic and lemon cuts through the richness of the steak and pasta.

Buttery Dinner Rolls

Soft, fluffy rolls are perfect for swiping up any remaining creamy sauce or garlic butter.

Baby Arugula Salad

Peppery greens tossed with lemon vinaigrette bring freshness and contrast to the dish.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Browned mushrooms add an earthy, umami-rich side that pairs beautifully with both steak and cheddar.

Creamy Cucumber Salad

A light, cooling cucumber salad can help mellow the smoky chipotle heat.

Sweet Corn on the Cob

Grilled or steamed corn adds a sweet bite that works well next to savory flavors.

Chili Lime Asparagus

Zingy and bright, these spears bring a sharp pop of citrus and spice.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Roasted sprouts with balsamic glaze or parmesan make a satisfying and balanced addition.

Want More Steak Dinner Ideas?

If you love these Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells, you’ll definitely want to try these flavor-packed dishes next:

• Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake for an ultra-cozy, one-pot meal that simmers to perfection.
• Creamy Mushroom Sauce for Steak if you’re craving something classic and earthy.
• Flavorful Mediterranean Steak Bowls for a bright, herb-packed twist.
• Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri that bring bold Latin flavor to the table.
• Sheet Pan Steak Fajitas when you need an easy, colorful dinner with a kick.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with ribeye or sirloin? Extra chipotle or mild and creamy?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better every day.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners and comfort meals on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feel-good food!

Conclusion

There’s something undeniably satisfying about steak and pasta coming together in one dish. Garlic Butter Steak Bites deliver juicy richness, while the Creamy Chipotle White Cheddar Shells bring bold, smoky smoothness that keeps you going back for more. It’s comforting yet exciting, simple but luxurious—a guaranteed weeknight win or impressive weekend treat.

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